Developing and Validating the Spanish Version of the Large Language Models Dependency Scale (LLM-D12-SP)

2026-07-24

AI Summary

This study addresses the lack of culturally adapted and reliable instruments for assessing psychological dependence on large language models (LLMs) among Spanish-speaking populations by developing and validating a Spanish version of the LLM Dependence Scale (LLM-D12). Confirmatory factor analysis, reliability testing (Cronbach’s α), and analyses of discriminant and external validity confirm that the scale exhibits a stable two-factor structure—comprising instrumental and relational dependence—with strong overall internal consistency (α = 0.89). The scale also demonstrates significant associations with internet addiction and perceived LLM trustworthiness. This work represents the first cross-cultural validation of an LLM dependence measure in a non-English-speaking population, offering a valid and generalizable tool for investigating the psychological aspects of LLM use in multilingual contexts.

Abstract

There is a growing need for reliable and culturally validated instruments to assess psychological dependency on large language models (LLMs), particularly as LLMs are increasingly used for task execution, decision-making, and communication in organizational and work-related settings. This need is especially relevant for Spanish-speaking populations, where LLM adoption is rapidly expanding, yet validated psychometric tools remain scarce. The present study reports the first validation of the Spanish version of the Large Language Model Dependency Scale (LLM-D12-SP), extending prior validations conducted in English- and Arabic-speaking samples. The LLM-D12 is a two-dimensional instrument assessing Instrumental Dependency (reliance on LLMs for performing tasks and supporting decisions) and Relationship Dependency (psychological reliance on LLMs for companionship and social interaction). A total of 386 Spanish-speaking participants (M = 28.0 years, SD = 6.1; 55% male) completed the LLM-D12-SP. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the original two-factor structure. The scale demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89 total; 0.86 Instrumental; 0.85 Relationship). Discriminant validity analyses indicated that the two subscales represent related but distinct constructs. External validation showed that both dependency dimensions were positively associated with internet addiction and perceived trustworthiness of LLMs, while showing weak or no association with need for cognition. Together with prior English and Arabic validations, these findings establish cross-linguistic support for the scale's structure and provide a psychometrically sound tool for investigating psychological aspects of LLM use in organizational contexts.

Problem

• large language models
• psychological dependency
• cross-cultural validation
• Spanish-speaking populations
• psychometric instrument

Innovation

• large language models
• psychological dependency
• cross-cultural validation
• scale development
• instrumental and relationship dependency